Thornton Heath Leisure Centre, Croydon, was filled with excitement and pride on Saturday 28 March as players, families, partners and supporters came together to celebrate a decade of the Thornton Heath Cricket Club, also known as the Croydon Street Proamme.
Founded in 2016, the Chance to Shine Street–funded sessions have grown significantly, becoming one of the programme’s most vibrant and successful community hubs. Each Saturday, between 100 and 150 young people aged 6–18 attend the sessions, demonstrating the project’s deep-rooted impact in the local area.
Led passionately by Asad Butt and supported by a dedicated team of coaches and volunteers, the programme has become a shining example of how cricket can bring communities together. The sessions provide consistent opportunities for young people to enjoy the game, develop their skills, and benefit from team spirit, structure, and positive role models.
The celebration event welcomed a distinguished group of guests, including Chance to Shine CEO Kate Stephens, ACE Director of Programmes Chevy Green, former India Women’s captain Chander Kaul, and Gavin Reynolds, Head of London Programmes at the Surrey Cricket Foundation. Their attendance highlighted the increasing recognition the programme has received across the cricketing landscape.
It was especially heartening to see several former participants return—some preparing for university, others progressing towards Surrey pathway trials or MCC Foundation Hubs—a testament to the longevity and influence of the sessions.
Looking ahead, the club’s next ambition is to secure a permanent home. Currently operating from Norbury Park’s non‑turf pitch during the summer months, the club is working closely with the local council to explore opportunities for improved facilities. Additional changing rooms and toilets would significantly support the club’s continued growth and ensure a sustainable future for cricket within the community.
Reflecting on the milestone, Gavin Reynolds said:
“Thornton Heath Cricket Club embodies everything we strive for at the Surrey Cricket Foundation—community spirit, opportunity, and a genuine love for the game. To see the programme grow from its early days into one of our most successful Street projects is incredibly inspiring. The dedication of the volunteers, coaches, parents and young people is what makes this place special, and we look forward to supporting them as they take their next steps.”
If you would like to support Thornton Heath Cricket Club’s development or get involved with similar community projects, please contact: foundation@surreycricket.com
